Fatal crane accident follows train derailment in Thailand with 2 casualties

A crane collapse near Bangkok killed two people, following a recent incident where another crane fell on a moving passenger train in northeastern Thailand, resulting in 32 deaths. Known for several construction accidents, some fatal, the work on an extension of the Rama 2 Road expressway saw the latest incident in Samut Sakhon province. Rescue worker Suchart Tongteng highlighted the danger of the site preventing immediate search and rescue efforts due to the risk of further collapses. Meanwhile, authorities concluded the search for survivors in the train derailment incident from the previous day, with three missing passengers believed to have disembarked earlier. Investigations are ongoing, with no charges pressed as yet, but it was reported that a South Korean individual was among the casualties. The high-speed rail project, part of the Belt and Road Initiative connecting China with Southeast Asia, has faced previous accidents, including a tunnel collapse in 2024. The contractor, Italthai, expressed condolences and promised compensation for the victims and their families. The company was also involved in the construction of the State Audit Building in Bangkok, which collapsed last year during an earthquake, and indictments have been made. The accidents involving Italthai and Chinese firms in various projects in Thailand have drawn scrutiny as well as condolences from the Chinese government.